# arson

/ˈɑɹsən/ (US) · /ˈɑːsən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arson
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. criminal fire-setting

noun · CEFR B2

the crime of starting a fire on purpose to destroy something, like a house or a car.

For teachers: the felony of intentionally and maliciously setting fire to structures or property.

- The police are investigating the fire at the warehouse as a case of arson.
- The forensic team discovered traces of accelerant near the entrance, confirming their suspicion that the blaze was an act of arson.

Usage: uncountable

## Examples

- The police suspect arson after finding two separate fires.
- Investigators ruled out electrical faults and confirmed the blaze was an act of arson.
- The insurance investigator noted the presence of accelerants, suggesting the fire was not accidental but a calculated act of arson designed to trigger a payout.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.